The Notre-Dame Pump, Paris 1852

Charles Meryon created this etching of The Notre-Dame Pump in Paris using a printmaking technique. Meryon was known for his detailed depictions of Paris, often tinged with a sense of melancholy and foreboding. His identity as an artist was deeply shaped by his illegitimacy and experiences as a naval officer. These experiences gave him a unique perspective on society. Meryon creates in this piece more than just a landscape; he makes a cultural commentary. "I can only render exactly what I see" Meryon once stated about his style, reflecting a commitment to realism while also revealing his emotional state. The print shows the pump-house in a state of disrepair, a stark contrast to the grandeur of the Notre-Dame Cathedral visible in the background. The artist may be suggesting the cathedral will outlast this scene. It emphasizes the transient nature of urban life versus the timelessness of cultural icons. He captures not just the physical appearance of Paris, but also its spirit and history, inviting viewers to contemplate their own relationship to the city.